Definition of alkyl
: having a monovalent organic group and especially one CnH2n+1 (such as methyl) derived from an alkane (such as methane)
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First Known Use of alkyl
1882
Definition of alkyl
: a compound of one or more alkyl groups with a metal
- mercury alkyls
Recent Examples of alkyl from the Web
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The second concern, Radić says, is that A-232’s alkyl amine group could enable it to target other enzymes in addition to AChE—and that raises the specter of severe symptoms arising months or years after exposure.
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The alkyl chloride and organophosphate precursors are toxic, but not nearly to the degree of VX, which was developed in the 1950s for chemical warfare and is the most potent of all nerve agents.
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Dragna recommends finding personal care products that contain surfactants from the alkyl polyglycosides instead, the most common of which is decyl glucoside, because the head group is a sugar instead of a sulfate.
These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'alkyl.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Origin and Etymology of alkyl
probably from German, from Alkohol alcohol
Medical Dictionary
medical Definition of alkyl
: of, relating to, or being an alkyl
- alkyl mercurials attack the brain cells
- —L. J. Goldwater
medical Definition of alkyl
1
: a monovalent aliphatic radical CnH2n+1 (as methyl);
broadly
: a monovalent aliphatic, aromatic-aliphatic, or alicyclic hydrocarbon radical
2
: a compound of one or more alkyl groups with a metal
Seen and Heard
What made you want to look up alkyl? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).
